Rise in silicon gel breast implants

Silicone gel implants have become the most popular choice for women undergoing breast enlargement surgery, surgeons have revealed.

Medics at the Plastic Surgery Centre of the South in Atlanta claim that the speed at which silicone gel has become the most popular implant choice is "remarkable".

Dr Anthony Musarra, a cosmetic surgeon at the clinic, said: "Women are doing their homework about the technological and safety advantages built into this new generation of implants, and they're making an informed decision about the implant type that's right for them."

According to fellow surgeon Dr James Leake, the consistency of silicone gel is "more like natural breast tissue" and the implants are less likely to create a "rippled" appearance.

Patients opting to have breast enlargement surgery in the UK can expect to pay in the region of £3,400 to £5,000 for the procedure, although those prepared to have treatment abroad can make significant savings.